The Appalachian Trail corridor near Daleville sits in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,900 feet, creating varied camping conditions throughout the seasons. Fall temperatures typically range from 35-65°F while summer brings 60-85°F days with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Tent camping options include multiple primitive sites with varying accessibility requirements, from drive-up dispersed areas to backcountry spots requiring significant hiking.
What to do
Kayaking and swimming: The James River provides excellent water recreation opportunities 30-45 minutes from Daleville. At Breeden Bottom Campground, campers enjoy direct river access. "Sites are spacious and right along the river. Most sites have river access directly from the site. The James river is perfect for kayaking/SUP/canoeing and even swimming, nice and calm," notes Lauren B.
Rock climbing: Dragon's Tooth formation offers challenging climbing routes for experienced climbers. "The arrows and the trail are very clear, it's a moderate to hard hike! Bring lots of water! No need to pack a life straw of any kind because there's not really water around except right in the beginning of the trail from the parking lot," reports Gabby & Brian V.
Paddle boarding: Quiet coves on nearby lakes provide ideal conditions for paddle boarding. Greenwood Point Campground requires water access but rewards with solitude. Emily T. shares, "Beautiful quiet lake, not heavily trafficked. Campsite is only accessible via water, so we packed our gear up on paddle boards to get there."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas offer substantial space between sites. Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812 provides ample room for multiple groups. David B. notes, "Large open space with several flat areas for tents. There are several spots on this road, maybe 6 but this is the furthest off the road."
Riverside camping: Direct waterfront access ranks highly among camper preferences. At Breeden Bottom Campground, Alison M. reports, "This site was in a great location and right on the crystal clear water. Sites are extremely private and spaced out; we couldn't see or hear anyone."
Fire rings and cooking areas: Most established sites maintain sturdy fire rings for cooking and warmth. At Catawba Mountain Shelter, Alex R. notes, "You get a lean-to and tent sites. Near water (collect water with a filter only). I was able to make a fire but make sure it's okay when you go."
What you should know
Train noise: Several riverside camping areas experience periodic train disruption. When staying at Breeden Bottom Campground, campers should expect occasional noise. Alison M. states, "The train was loud at times, but we knew that would happen when we booked the site, so no surprises there."
Site reservation requirements: While dispersed sites operate on first-come basis, established campgrounds like Shirleys' River Retreat require advance booking. Mark M. mentions the "wonderful host and amazing campsite right in the riverbank," indicating managed access.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly throughout the region. Jon N. reports about Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812: "No cell service(T-Mobile), but if I drove towards the main road, Route 501, I could get some service."
Water availability: Natural springs require treatment and seasonal fluctuations affect reliability. One camper at Catawba Mountain Shelter confirms you need to "collect water with a filter only" from nearby sources.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming: Sites with gentle water access work best for children. Alison M. notes about Breeden Bottom Campground: "Current wasn't too strong for the dogs tho and there was a good, shallow walk-in into the water."
Vault toilet locations: Dragon's Tooth provides essential facilities at the trailhead. Angela D. states, "There are vault toilets stocked with toilet paper at the trailhead as well as bear proof trashcans."
Spacing for multiple tents: Groups need sufficient flat areas for setup. The Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812 offers "a giant fire circle in the middle and enough room to fit about 10 vehicles/groups if people don't mind being next to each other," according to Jon N.
Protected food storage: Wildlife considerations require proper storage. At primitive sites along the Greenbrier River Trail, facilities include "Metal Bear Proof Trash Receptacle" as noted by Dave V.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness considerations: While primarily tent-focused, some areas accommodate small RVs on level surfaces. Lynchburg KOA (formerly Wildwood Campground) receives praise from Nicholas H. who states, "Sites are huge and level. It's quiet and peaceful, and the surrounding area is gorgeous."
Access road conditions: Forest roads leading to dispersed sites require clearance. Jon N. describes the approach to FR 812: "It is a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out."
Hookup limitations: Most areas within 30 minutes of Daleville lack services. Lynchburg KOA offers full hookups but sits approximately 45 minutes from Daleville, making it the nearest full-service option.
